Never stop abruptly
Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium, Rivotril) and long-term opioids must be tapered under medical supervision. Sudden cessation of benzos can be dangerous. This is a case where 'just stopping' is the wrong answer, not the brave one.
How treatment usually looks
A structured medical taper over weeks, sometimes months, alongside therapy that addresses the underlying reason the medication was needed in the first place (usually chronic pain, anxiety, or sleep). The taper is uncomfortable; a good program makes it survivable.
For older patients
Long-term users, especially older adults on decades-long benzodiazepine prescriptions, need slow, dignified tapers. We know centers that specialize in this exact profile.